Cart 0
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)
Special Service Medal (CIII)

Special Service Medal (CIII)

Special Service Medal (SSM)

The Special Service Medal (SSM) recognizes members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who have performed service under exceptional circumstances, in a clearly defined locality and for a specified duration.

Approved activities are those that were underway on 11 June 1984 or established thereafter.
The medal is always issued with a bar that specifies the special service being recognized — each bar having its own eligibility criteria.

Medal Details

  • Full Size Medal: Includes 8 inches of ribbon and selected bar.

  • Miniature Medal: Includes 5 inches of ribbon and selected bar.

  • Mounting: This medal is supplied unmounted. Mounting services are available at an additional cost.

Available Bars & Eligibility Criteria

1. ALERT

Awarded for an aggregate of 180 days of honourable service on the posted strength of CFS Alert, or while operationally deployed to/at CFS Alert, since 1 September 1958.
Includes detachments such as aircrew flying into the station for re-supply missions.

2. EXPEDITION

Awarded for an aggregate of 180 days of honourable service performed outside Canada beginning 1 July 2007, while deployed on full-time duty in direct support of approved operations.
Postings to permanent positions outside Canada do not qualify. Service cannot be counted toward another Canadian or foreign service medal.

3. HUMANITAS

Awarded for an aggregate of 30 days of honourable service outside Canada from 11 June 1984 to 31 July 2009, in support of approved humanitarian operations conducted in response to disasters or human conflicts.
Service recognized by another Canadian honour is not eligible.

4. NATO / OTAN

a. NATO Service (1951–2004)

Awarded for 180 days of honourable service within NATO’s area of responsibility between 1 January 1951 and 19 October 2004, while:

  • Posted to a NATO unit or Canadian/Allied formation under NATO operational control, or

  • Serving in Canada in an operations room directly participating in NATO operational control.

Not all European or sea service qualifies.

b. NATO Service (2004–Present)

Awarded for 45 days of honourable service in approved NATO operations or direct support roles outside Canada beginning 20 October 2004.
Service not in direct support of NATO operations (such as training, exercises, or conferences) is excluded.
Eligible service under both criteria may be combined to reach the 45-day minimum.

5. RANGER

Awarded for four years of honourable service as a Canadian Ranger or Ranger Instructor, performing duties that support Canadian sovereignty.
Duties include reporting unusual activities, providing local expertise, and participating in a minimum of three Ranger Patrol Exercises since 1947.

Qualifying Patrol Types: 3, 4, 5, and 6
Non-Qualifying Patrol Types: 1 and 2

6. DISTANTIA

Awarded for:

  • 180 consecutive days, or

  • 270 aggregate days (including 60 consecutive days)

of honourable service beginning 5 November 2024, performed either in Canada or outside Canada (excluding theatres of operations), while remotely participating full-time in approved operations through the personal use of weapons systems or delivery of targeted effects enabled by technology.
Service must not be counted toward any other medal.

{"id":9162216931579,"title":"Special Service Medal (CIII)","handle":"special-service-medal-eiir-copy","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"311\" data-end=\"345\"\u003eSpecial Service Medal (SSM)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"347\" data-end=\"562\"\u003eThe Special Service Medal (SSM) recognizes members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who have performed service under exceptional circumstances, in a clearly defined locality and for a specified duration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"564\" data-end=\"803\"\u003eApproved activities are those that were underway on 11 June 1984 or established thereafter.\u003cbr data-start=\"659\" data-end=\"662\"\u003eThe medal is always issued with a bar that specifies the special service being recognized — each bar having its own eligibility criteria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"805\" data-end=\"808\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"810\" data-end=\"831\"\u003eMedal Details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"1086\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"902\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"834\" data-end=\"902\"\u003eFull Size Medal: Includes 8 inches of ribbon and selected bar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"903\" data-end=\"973\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"905\" data-end=\"973\"\u003eMiniature Medal: Includes 5 inches of ribbon and selected bar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"974\" data-end=\"1086\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"976\" data-end=\"1086\"\u003eMounting: This medal is supplied unmounted. Mounting services are available at an additional cost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1088\" data-end=\"1091\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1093\" data-end=\"1137\"\u003eAvailable Bars \u0026amp; Eligibility Criteria\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1155\"\u003e1. ALERT\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1156\" data-end=\"1423\"\u003eAwarded for an aggregate of 180 days of honourable service on the posted strength of CFS Alert, or while operationally deployed to\/at CFS Alert, since 1 September 1958.\u003cbr data-start=\"1336\" data-end=\"1339\"\u003eIncludes detachments such as aircrew flying into the station for re-supply missions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1425\" data-end=\"1428\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1430\" data-end=\"1451\"\u003e2. EXPEDITION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1452\" data-end=\"1790\"\u003eAwarded for an aggregate of 180 days of honourable service performed outside Canada beginning 1 July 2007, while deployed on full-time duty in direct support of approved operations.\u003cbr data-start=\"1645\" data-end=\"1648\"\u003ePostings to permanent positions outside Canada do not qualify. Service cannot be counted toward another Canadian or foreign service medal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1792\" data-end=\"1795\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1797\" data-end=\"1817\"\u003e3. HUMANITAS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1818\" data-end=\"2100\"\u003eAwarded for an aggregate of 30 days of honourable service outside Canada from 11 June 1984 to 31 July 2009, in support of approved humanitarian operations conducted in response to disasters or human conflicts.\u003cbr data-start=\"2035\" data-end=\"2038\"\u003eService recognized by another Canadian honour is not eligible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2102\" data-end=\"2105\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2107\" data-end=\"2129\"\u003e4. NATO \/ OTAN\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2167\"\u003ea. NATO Service (1951–2004)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2168\" data-end=\"2306\"\u003eAwarded for 180 days of honourable service within NATO’s area of responsibility between 1 January 1951 and 19 October 2004, while:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2307\" data-end=\"2490\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2307\" data-end=\"2396\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2309\" data-end=\"2396\"\u003ePosted to a NATO unit or Canadian\/Allied formation under NATO operational control, or\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2397\" data-end=\"2490\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2399\" data-end=\"2490\"\u003eServing in Canada in an operations room directly participating in NATO operational control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2492\" data-end=\"2536\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"2492\" data-end=\"2536\"\u003eNot all European or sea service qualifies.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"2538\" data-end=\"2577\"\u003eb. NATO Service (2004–Present)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2915\"\u003eAwarded for 45 days of honourable service in approved NATO operations or direct support roles outside Canada beginning 20 October 2004.\u003cbr data-start=\"2721\" data-end=\"2724\"\u003eService not in direct support of NATO operations (such as training, exercises, or conferences) is excluded.\u003cbr data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"2834\"\u003eEligible service under both criteria may be combined to reach the 45-day minimum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2917\" data-end=\"2920\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2922\" data-end=\"2939\"\u003e5. RANGER\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2940\" data-end=\"3248\"\u003eAwarded for four years of honourable service as a Canadian Ranger or Ranger Instructor, performing duties that support Canadian sovereignty.\u003cbr data-start=\"3092\" data-end=\"3095\"\u003eDuties include reporting unusual activities, providing local expertise, and participating in a minimum of three Ranger Patrol Exercises since 1947.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3250\" data-end=\"3336\"\u003eQualifying Patrol Types: 3, 4, 5, and 6\u003cbr data-start=\"3293\" data-end=\"3296\"\u003eNon-Qualifying Patrol Types: 1 and 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3338\" data-end=\"3341\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3343\" data-end=\"3363\"\u003e6. DISTANTIA\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3364\" data-end=\"3376\"\u003eAwarded for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"3377\" data-end=\"3468\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3377\" data-end=\"3409\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3379\" data-end=\"3409\"\u003e180 consecutive days, or\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3410\" data-end=\"3468\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3412\" data-end=\"3468\"\u003e270 aggregate days (including 60 consecutive days)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3470\" data-end=\"3822\"\u003eof honourable service beginning 5 November 2024, performed either in Canada or outside Canada (excluding theatres of operations), while remotely participating full-time in approved operations through the personal use of weapons systems or delivery of targeted effects enabled by technology.\u003cbr data-start=\"3768\" data-end=\"3771\"\u003eService must not be counted toward any other medal.\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-11-04T09:33:39-07:00","created_at":"2025-11-04T08:57:59-07:00","vendor":"none","type":"Collectibles:Militaria:Canada: Modern","tags":[],"price":1500,"price_min":1500,"price_max":5500,"available":true,"price_varies":true,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":47672912675067,"title":"Full Size w\/No Bar","option1":"Full Size w\/No Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48523617894651,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":1,"created_at":"2025-11-18T17:22:40-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2112,"height":2754,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164557.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912675067]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Full Size w\/No Bar","public_title":"Full Size w\/No Bar","options":["Full Size w\/No Bar"],"price":4500,"weight":50,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":-8,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40159444304123,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.767,"height":2754,"width":2112,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164557.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912478459,"title":"Full Size w\/Alert Bar","option1":"Full Size w\/Alert Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48523617992955,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":4,"created_at":"2025-11-18T17:22:41-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2182,"height":3084,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164830.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912478459]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Full Size w\/Alert Bar","public_title":"Full Size w\/Alert Bar","options":["Full Size w\/Alert Bar"],"price":5500,"weight":50,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40159444369659,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.708,"height":3084,"width":2182,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164830.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912609531,"title":"Full Size w\/Peace\/Paix","option1":"Full Size w\/Peace\/Paix","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48523618025723,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":7,"created_at":"2025-11-18T17:22:41-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2014,"height":3088,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164649.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912609531]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Full Size w\/Peace\/Paix","public_title":"Full Size w\/Peace\/Paix","options":["Full Size w\/Peace\/Paix"],"price":5500,"weight":50,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40159444402427,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":3088,"width":2014,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164649.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912576763,"title":"Full Size w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","option1":"Full Size w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48523618091259,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":3,"created_at":"2025-11-18T17:22:41-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2170,"height":3208,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164726.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912576763]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Full Size w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","public_title":"Full Size w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","options":["Full Size w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar"],"price":5500,"weight":50,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":-2,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40159444467963,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.676,"height":3208,"width":2170,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164726.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912543995,"title":"Full Size w\/Humanitas Bar","option1":"Full Size w\/Humanitas Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48523618124027,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":5,"created_at":"2025-11-18T17:22:41-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2062,"height":3092,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164938.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912543995]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Full Size w\/Humanitas Bar","public_title":"Full Size w\/Humanitas Bar","options":["Full Size w\/Humanitas Bar"],"price":5500,"weight":50,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40159444500731,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.667,"height":3092,"width":2062,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164938.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912642299,"title":"Full Size w\/Ranger Bar","option1":"Full Size w\/Ranger Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48523617960187,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":6,"created_at":"2025-11-18T17:22:40-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":1934,"height":2986,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165052.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912642299]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Full Size w\/Ranger Bar","public_title":"Full Size w\/Ranger Bar","options":["Full Size w\/Ranger Bar"],"price":5500,"weight":50,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40159444336891,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.648,"height":2986,"width":1934,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165052.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912511227,"title":"Full Size w\/Expedition Bar","option1":"Full Size w\/Expedition Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48523618058491,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":8,"created_at":"2025-11-18T17:22:41-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2036,"height":3152,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165137.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912511227]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Full Size w\/Expedition Bar","public_title":"Full Size w\/Expedition Bar","options":["Full Size w\/Expedition Bar"],"price":5500,"weight":50,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40159444435195,"position":8,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.646,"height":3152,"width":2036,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165137.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912707835,"title":"Miniature w\/No Bar","option1":"Miniature w\/No Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/No Bar","public_title":"Miniature w\/No Bar","options":["Miniature w\/No Bar"],"price":1500,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":-13,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912740603,"title":"Miniature w\/Alert Bar","option1":"Miniature w\/Alert Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/Alert Bar","public_title":"Miniature w\/Alert Bar","options":["Miniature w\/Alert Bar"],"price":2300,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":-1,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912871675,"title":"Miniature w\/Peace\/Paix","option1":"Miniature w\/Peace\/Paix","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/Peace\/Paix","public_title":"Miniature w\/Peace\/Paix","options":["Miniature w\/Peace\/Paix"],"price":2300,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912838907,"title":"Miniature w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","option1":"Miniature w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","public_title":"Miniature w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar","options":["Miniature w\/NATO\/OTAN Bar"],"price":2300,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912806139,"title":"Miniature w\/Humanitas Bar","option1":"Miniature w\/Humanitas Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/Humanitas Bar","public_title":"Miniature w\/Humanitas Bar","options":["Miniature w\/Humanitas Bar"],"price":2300,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912904443,"title":"Miniature w\/Ranger Bar","option1":"Miniature w\/Ranger Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/Ranger Bar","public_title":"Miniature w\/Ranger Bar","options":["Miniature w\/Ranger Bar"],"price":2300,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":-1,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912773371,"title":"Miniature w\/Expedition Bar","option1":"Miniature w\/Expedition Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/Expedition Bar","public_title":"Miniature w\/Expedition Bar","options":["Miniature w\/Expedition Bar"],"price":2300,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":-1,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"continue","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]},{"id":47672912937211,"title":"Miniature w\/Distantia Bar","option1":"Miniature w\/Distantia Bar","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":{"id":48415002099963,"product_id":9162216931579,"position":9,"created_at":"2025-11-04T10:57:02-07:00","updated_at":"2025-11-18T17:24:09-07:00","alt":null,"width":2726,"height":1884,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","variant_ids":[47672912707835,47672912740603,47672912773371,47672912806139,47672912838907,47672912871675,47672912904443,47672912937211]},"available":true,"name":"Special Service Medal (CIII) - Miniature w\/Distantia Bar","public_title":"Miniature w\/Distantia Bar","options":["Miniature w\/Distantia Bar"],"price":2300,"weight":20,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":0,"inventory_management":null,"inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":"","featured_media":{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"}},"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164557.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165415.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164726.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164830.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164938.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165052.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164649.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165137.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063640.jpg?v=1763511849"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164557.jpg?v=1763511849","options":["Type"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":40159444304123,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.767,"height":2754,"width":2112,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164557.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.767,"height":2754,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164557.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2112},{"alt":null,"id":40159444271355,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.8,"height":2898,"width":2318,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165415.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.8,"height":2898,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165415.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2318},{"alt":null,"id":40159444467963,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.676,"height":3208,"width":2170,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164726.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.676,"height":3208,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164726.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2170},{"alt":null,"id":40159444369659,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.708,"height":3084,"width":2182,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164830.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.708,"height":3084,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164830.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2182},{"alt":null,"id":40159444500731,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.667,"height":3092,"width":2062,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164938.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.667,"height":3092,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164938.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2062},{"alt":null,"id":40159444336891,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.648,"height":2986,"width":1934,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165052.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.648,"height":2986,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165052.jpg?v=1763511849","width":1934},{"alt":null,"id":40159444402427,"position":7,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":3088,"width":2014,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164649.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.652,"height":3088,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_164649.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2014},{"alt":null,"id":40159444435195,"position":8,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.646,"height":3152,"width":2036,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165137.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.646,"height":3152,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251118_165137.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2036},{"alt":null,"id":40058626441467,"position":9,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"width":2726,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":1.447,"height":1884,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063711.jpg?v=1763511849","width":2726},{"alt":null,"id":40058662158587,"position":10,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":0.75,"height":1814,"width":1360,"src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063640.jpg?v=1763511849"},"aspect_ratio":0.75,"height":1814,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.defencemedals.ca\/cdn\/shop\/files\/20251104_063640.jpg?v=1763511849","width":1360}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"311\" data-end=\"345\"\u003eSpecial Service Medal (SSM)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"347\" data-end=\"562\"\u003eThe Special Service Medal (SSM) recognizes members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who have performed service under exceptional circumstances, in a clearly defined locality and for a specified duration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"564\" data-end=\"803\"\u003eApproved activities are those that were underway on 11 June 1984 or established thereafter.\u003cbr data-start=\"659\" data-end=\"662\"\u003eThe medal is always issued with a bar that specifies the special service being recognized — each bar having its own eligibility criteria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"805\" data-end=\"808\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"810\" data-end=\"831\"\u003eMedal Details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"1086\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"902\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"834\" data-end=\"902\"\u003eFull Size Medal: Includes 8 inches of ribbon and selected bar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"903\" data-end=\"973\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"905\" data-end=\"973\"\u003eMiniature Medal: Includes 5 inches of ribbon and selected bar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"974\" data-end=\"1086\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"976\" data-end=\"1086\"\u003eMounting: This medal is supplied unmounted. Mounting services are available at an additional cost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1088\" data-end=\"1091\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1093\" data-end=\"1137\"\u003eAvailable Bars \u0026amp; Eligibility Criteria\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1155\"\u003e1. ALERT\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1156\" data-end=\"1423\"\u003eAwarded for an aggregate of 180 days of honourable service on the posted strength of CFS Alert, or while operationally deployed to\/at CFS Alert, since 1 September 1958.\u003cbr data-start=\"1336\" data-end=\"1339\"\u003eIncludes detachments such as aircrew flying into the station for re-supply missions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1425\" data-end=\"1428\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1430\" data-end=\"1451\"\u003e2. EXPEDITION\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1452\" data-end=\"1790\"\u003eAwarded for an aggregate of 180 days of honourable service performed outside Canada beginning 1 July 2007, while deployed on full-time duty in direct support of approved operations.\u003cbr data-start=\"1645\" data-end=\"1648\"\u003ePostings to permanent positions outside Canada do not qualify. Service cannot be counted toward another Canadian or foreign service medal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1792\" data-end=\"1795\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1797\" data-end=\"1817\"\u003e3. HUMANITAS\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1818\" data-end=\"2100\"\u003eAwarded for an aggregate of 30 days of honourable service outside Canada from 11 June 1984 to 31 July 2009, in support of approved humanitarian operations conducted in response to disasters or human conflicts.\u003cbr data-start=\"2035\" data-end=\"2038\"\u003eService recognized by another Canadian honour is not eligible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2102\" data-end=\"2105\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2107\" data-end=\"2129\"\u003e4. NATO \/ OTAN\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"2131\" data-end=\"2167\"\u003ea. NATO Service (1951–2004)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2168\" data-end=\"2306\"\u003eAwarded for 180 days of honourable service within NATO’s area of responsibility between 1 January 1951 and 19 October 2004, while:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2307\" data-end=\"2490\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2307\" data-end=\"2396\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2309\" data-end=\"2396\"\u003ePosted to a NATO unit or Canadian\/Allied formation under NATO operational control, or\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2397\" data-end=\"2490\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2399\" data-end=\"2490\"\u003eServing in Canada in an operations room directly participating in NATO operational control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2492\" data-end=\"2536\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"2492\" data-end=\"2536\"\u003eNot all European or sea service qualifies.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-start=\"2538\" data-end=\"2577\"\u003eb. NATO Service (2004–Present)\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2915\"\u003eAwarded for 45 days of honourable service in approved NATO operations or direct support roles outside Canada beginning 20 October 2004.\u003cbr data-start=\"2721\" data-end=\"2724\"\u003eService not in direct support of NATO operations (such as training, exercises, or conferences) is excluded.\u003cbr data-start=\"2831\" data-end=\"2834\"\u003eEligible service under both criteria may be combined to reach the 45-day minimum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2917\" data-end=\"2920\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2922\" data-end=\"2939\"\u003e5. RANGER\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2940\" data-end=\"3248\"\u003eAwarded for four years of honourable service as a Canadian Ranger or Ranger Instructor, performing duties that support Canadian sovereignty.\u003cbr data-start=\"3092\" data-end=\"3095\"\u003eDuties include reporting unusual activities, providing local expertise, and participating in a minimum of three Ranger Patrol Exercises since 1947.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3250\" data-end=\"3336\"\u003eQualifying Patrol Types: 3, 4, 5, and 6\u003cbr data-start=\"3293\" data-end=\"3296\"\u003eNon-Qualifying Patrol Types: 1 and 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3338\" data-end=\"3341\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3343\" data-end=\"3363\"\u003e6. DISTANTIA\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3364\" data-end=\"3376\"\u003eAwarded for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"3377\" data-end=\"3468\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3377\" data-end=\"3409\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3379\" data-end=\"3409\"\u003e180 consecutive days, or\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3410\" data-end=\"3468\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3412\" data-end=\"3468\"\u003e270 aggregate days (including 60 consecutive days)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3470\" data-end=\"3822\"\u003eof honourable service beginning 5 November 2024, performed either in Canada or outside Canada (excluding theatres of operations), while remotely participating full-time in approved operations through the personal use of weapons systems or delivery of targeted effects enabled by technology.\u003cbr data-start=\"3768\" data-end=\"3771\"\u003eService must not be counted toward any other medal.\u003c\/p\u003e"}